I've tried a bunch of different Bowmores, and the Bowmore 12 is the one I try to keep around. That's not to say I disliked any of the others I've tried, in fact I've liked them all! But Bowmore 12 fits so nicely into my collection, in its own niche. It's inexpensive, and it really is a nice Scotch to drink on Tuesdays, or any days. Lately it's sort of become my default, for those times I want an easy Scotch (relatively speaking, it's still from Islay after all) to relax with at the end of a day, when there's no special occasion or desire to go higher end or more complex. If I indulge a little bit more than I normally would, I don't feel like I'm "wasting" the "good stuff" drinking it too fast or too much of it in a sitting. It's still good stuff, though. I wouldn't drink it if I didn't love it. I just feel it's more relaxed, while still maintaining all those wonderful Islay qualities. There's probably a lot of people who'd find Bowmore 12 to be way too intense, and could not conceive of anyone calling this Scotch "relaxed", but for a hardcore Islay fanatic like myself it's very gentle. I think any Islay lover should have this around, if only for a change of pace, and it may very well be the perfect introduction to Islay for the timid newbie.
Wow, one that you actually enjoy so much you don't really compare it or say too much about it, all you want to do is drink it. That is quite the recommendation.
The Bowmore distillery is Thee Oldest Single Malt Scotch Distillery in Scotland. Established in 1779 . 3 years after the signing of The Declaration of Independence , thus the founding of The United States for America .
I tried this at my favourite pub tonight, live jazz sax in the background. It was the first peated scotch I’ve tried. It was so good. The smoke really stuck around, even a few hours later I can still taste and smell it.
I had my first Islay whisky and Bowmore 12 for the first time several weeks ago and had two glasses at a bar, introduced by a friend. Now I can't stop thinking about it. I had previously tried smoky/peaty beer which I really didn't like. I also tried a very cheap (speyside and highland) blended mildly smoky scotch, given by a friend as a gift, which was tolerable and good as a mixer; but the Bowmore 12 blew me away. I previously had other scotches I really liked (and was the best whisk[e]y I ever drank), but they were an unpeated Speyside (Aberlour 12 double cask) and an unpeated Highland (Dalmore 12)--more fruity and light. I thought this was basically all that scotch was. I had no idea the wide variety of flavours, or of Islays. I'm now so interested to get into Islays to see what they have to offer! Too bad they are so overpriced in Quebec, Canada. The cheapest Islays are between 60-100$ CAD. Some are 100-300$.
This was an excellent review, and you do so many, of Bowmore Scotch. I think it is an wonderful expression of scotch. Many try to compare it to various other scotches, Laphroaig especially, that it looses it's place in the wonderful versions of scotch whisky. My uncle loved all types of scotch and often got various ones including 28 year old, 17 year, etc. He taught me to appreciate the various flavors and types of scotch including blended. He said, it was rare for him to meet a scotch he didn't like (ok there where a few).
Yeah this was my first smokey whisky 1y ago. Since then I had Lagavulin 16 and the got edition, caol ila 12, caol ila 18,conemara, taliksrer, Talisker dark storm. Bowmore is still my favourite
Dammit! That's what I say, too. I had them all, I listened to the experts (Ralfy et. al.) - but I'm not ashamed to rate a relatively cheap, colored and chill filtered Bowmore 12 higher than a praised Lagavulin. The "Bowmore-Smoke" is of another kind, not only gentler.
I have just tried the McLellands back just a few weeks ago and had really enjoyed it. An especially nice Islay for it's low price point. Since then, I've picked up a few bottles of Bowmore 12's at out local liquor and have been really, really enjoying them, for all the same reasons you guys have described here. Now that you mention the McLellands Islay being a 3yr old Bowmore, I can clearly see that. It's very interesting comparing the two together now. Amazing the subtleties and smoothness that the extra 9 years of aging add's to this scotch, especially in terms of the sherry and oak notes that become more clearly pronounced. But that said, it's also quite amazing how nice the McLellands (aka young Bowmore) is even at only 3 or so years young! McLellands IS a really nice alternative to enjoying this friendly peated dram on a budget. Though a good 12 year old Bowmore is well WELL worth the extra money. Fun review and appreciate the good info. Bless up
I finally sat down and had the same wonderful splash of deliciousness as you guys. drinking along listening to the notes really helped me pick some things out. Take care fellas and me we drink again.
Just tried this one for the first time. I’m impressed. It has everything I love about Islay whiskey but also very light and smooth. I can see myself enjoying this with a big steak dinner. I like the price point too. Easily a top favorite for me.
@@Flexhunter308 Any peated whisky is going to be a little medicinal. The stuff in the smoke - the phenols - are also responsible for the band-aid smell.
One of my favorite local restaurants has Bowmore 12 on their whisky list and I always order it as it is the only spot around that has it. I like it. Ralfy only gives an 80!
Grabbed a bottle of this today, and its a good one. I'm new to the world of peat and decided to start here after pretty extensive research (including this video, of course). It's 60 bucks where I'm from (MT) but so is Glenlivet, so the complexity and drinkability seems well worth the price tag.
Matt Mitchell If I remember correctly McClelland scotches are produced by Morrison Bowmore Distillery. They own the Bowmore distillery and other distilleries throughout Scotland so you are getting exceptional tasting scotch at an affordable price. Never a bad thing.
I've only been drinking whiskey for about a year. I started with the typical Bourbon, and I've come to really enjoy it... I've also only seen a few of your episodes, but given the fact that both you guys opted to just sit down and enjoy the Bowmore said a lot to me. So, I might just have to go my local liquor store and buy it... Thanks for the great review!!
As a guy that started on Speysides and tried, but was not ready for Laphroiag, I'd say it is a good gateway, sort of. It is a slightly advanced gateway. I did not find it a "sweet and friendly hug" more like a gentle shove as opposed to Laphroaig's punch in the face. The smoke is not too aggressive, but it is very apparent (for my novice pallet). That said, I do like it and am looking forward to other Isla's (Coal ila, Highland park 12 etc.) before I really get back to that Laphroaig.
As an Islay fanatic, I absolutely would describe Bowmore 12 as a sweet and friendly hug. I'm definitely calibrated for much more smoke, and I love it. If Islay's not for you, then Islay's not for you, and there's no shame in that. I do see value in exploring new things and developing one's palate, but there's no need to punish oneself with flavors one doesn't enjoy. My first experience with Islay Scotch was Ardbeg 10, which many consider to be more intense than any of Laphroaig's offerings, but I loved it from the first sip. There's also a range to Islay beyond how smoky the Scotch can be. If you enjoy Bowmore 12, maybe your goal should be something like Bowmore 18, Laphroaig 15, Ardbeg Corryvrekan, or Lagavulin 16, rather than Caol Ila 12, Laphroaig Quarter Cask, Laphroaig 10, or Ardbeg 10. Also a small nitpick, Highland Park isn't on Islay, although it is on an island. You might be interested in Talisker, as another non-Islay but peaty island Scotch. Highland Park 12 might be considered a small step down on smokiness, and Talisker 10 might be considered a small step up on smokiness.
Thx! I've had Talisker, early on and it was a bit much but not unenjoyable. I am wanting to try Lag 16, that's my next big (ish) purchase. I actually found Ardbeg 10 more friendly than Laphroaig 10, mostly due to less antiseptic flavor. I also bought Bowmore 15 darkest but have not opened it yet. I do like Highland park 12, which I have bought since the last post. I hated it for the first minute, it had some really off smell and flavor when I first cracked the bottle but it was never there again. I notice that with many new bottles, they taste awful, just that first few minutes after being cracked. I like to challenge my tastes and expand my pallate with food, wine, beer and spirits. I find the journey worth it in the end when I can enjoy things like Sushi or oysters, Cabernet Sauvignion or Malbec, Hoppy beer or dark stouts, or high proof or peat, or smoke or woody spirits. If you have the time and enough money to try multiple things inside and out of your comfort zone I think you always are better for it. Again, THX for the input!
They do stuff?? They turn the wet barley every four hours for six to seven days! from the Bowmore website: First, the raw barley is steeped for 27 hours in fresh water sourced from the nearby River Laggan. Then the soaked grains are spread out across the stone floors of the Malt Barn. After 24 hours the barley is ready for turning, a vital step that keeps the grains aerated and cool, and the rate of germination slow and consistent. For the next six to seven days, our Maltmen will turn the damp barley every four hours, day and night, using large wooden shovels. Once it’s ready, the barley - now called “green malt” on account of the tiny shoots beginning to show - is taken to the kiln for drying.
The distillery is by a sea loch, not a lake or freshwater loch. A sea loch is like an inlet, so it is by the sea. I get the briney notes as well.just saying guys
Definitely this or Caol Ila are a friendly introduction to smokey whisky. I liked Daniel’s comparison with black tea! There’s something to that, but there’s also some lovely tropical fruit notes. It’s a beautifully balanced whisky, pity it isn’t a few percent stronger, or released cask strength, cos a little extra kick and body would make it better for sure. A good session whisky for people who like smoke.
Guys, I love the channel, and having had the Bowmore 12 for the first time last night, I decided to watch your video. Lots of good info, but the Bowmore distillery is right on the ocean (bay), directly across from Bruichladdich. Just look at Google Maps. I can't even find the loch that Daniel mentions. Edit- On further research, apparently they call that bay Loch Indaal, which Bruichladdich also faces. Not sure why they call it a loch. It's not land"loch"ed. Keep up the good work
Actually the first bottle of whisky I ever bought, didn't (don't) know shit about whisky.Enjoying a glass right now, butterscotch and honey come to mind.
I don't know if I should post my tastings here, but here it goes. Beginner One of the first bottle I bought, and without a proper glass, I got the light peat and most the sweet notes mentioned here except the lemon zest. Continue down the bottle and almost at the last I finally got a proper glass. Now instead, I got very strong mineral notes. Chalk and aluminium like. With the sweet note hidden much further behind. Anyone got the same?
After watching this review and having my first dram, this has become my absolute favorite drink. Peat, earth/clay, and butterscotch! I love how you guys finish the review early so you can steal away and enjoy it. I completely understand.
Watching this video has "forced" me to buying a bottle of this and Highland Park 12 as both sounded like a great introduction towards/into Islay whisky. After doing a side by side of the two. I think I have a better idea of the mossy, sea water and peat smoke flavours which I enjoy as it reminds me hiking in forests and campfires from fishing retreats. However, I'm left scratching my head searching for the relative sweet notes such as butterscotch and honey which lead me to a thought "Does it take longer for a non-smoker to catch these flavours?" I understand sweet in Islay whisky is relative and no where near friendly Highland or Japanese blended whisky (Which are the only kinds I have drank to date), but I wonder if it is easier for someone to taste these notes for someone who is commonly exposed to the dominant smoke flavour. Hope to unlock the complexity of these whiskys in the next 2,3 or 10 drams as I would eventually like to work my way towards Lagavulin and Laphroig.
To me, it's a decent Islay that improves as the bottle goes down. The aeration softens the edges and opens the citrus notes behind the salt. Not my favorite Islay, but one I can enjoy from time to time, when I don't want to get hit by bricks of peat.
My 1st Islay whisky. A very nice whisky and for a decent price in Ontario Canada. 58 bucks on sale. Two questions. What would you guys recommend for a whiskey thats has a bit more Smokeyness. The other is what would you guys recommend for a highland scotch for beginner's that is a decent price
Barry Dunham yeah it’s like 60 bucks here in Newfoundland. Delicious. Haven’t been able to bring myself to drop 115 for Lagavulin, but this is a good option.
Little late on the draw with this comment but just picked up a bottle of this getting off work tonight. Being a broke student i usually make my relatively more expensive alchohol last but I'm currently going on my third glass of this tonight. Good for me, bad for my bank account.
This is ny father’s favourite. Mine would be grandpa’s (on my mother’s side) homemade whisky. Any suggestions on what he might enjoy that fits this flavor profile?
I’m finishing the bottle of Bowmore Legend, and i’m really enjoying the sweet aftertaste and the nice and smooth smoke that it has. What would you recommend as a similar islay whisky that i should buy next? Should i try some of the other Bowmore versions or there is a more interesting option? So far i tried Caol Ila, Ardberg 10 and Lagavulin distillers edition, and i think they were a bit to strong for my taste
This has become my nightly sipper. Now i certainly don't have a full room of whiskey but as a non professional collector i have still managed to gather a bars worth of whiskey. (Whisky) (dont let anyone tell you scotch is for older men either i myself and 23 and my fiance who is a big lover of aged scotch is just 21)
I find the taste a little bland (or crisp depending on how you look at it), but it has a wonderful aroma that makes it well worth the price tag. A subtle drink for a relaxed evening.
The Ardmore is also a good start, Bowmore small batch is an acquired taste (and I love Islay over any other region for Scotch) Other options: Highland Park, newer Talisker 10 or even Connemara Irish peated Whiskey might be an idea.
Outstanding dram! Everything I want is on Islay, no need to go elsewhere except for Skye (Talisker). I find WantMore 12-yr to be a more complex and complete version of Glendorach 12. I find most Highland and Speyside's to be one dimensional. When you add smoke and earthy peat you now have a complete dram. Well done WantMore!
If you were to say bonjour in French do you use your own accent or put on a French accent? Most folks will make it sound French so that it sounds right- same deal with whisky. It's also fun trying to get non-Scots to pronounce the ch in words like loch and Genfiddich correctly. Here's something you will know better than me - do whisky (Scotch whisky I'm talking about) books produced for the international market have pronunciation guides for the names? Does respect for the craftmanship/brewmanship carry over to the name and saying it properly? I guess it must do as we often see, myself included, pronounce it in a few different ways in an attempt to get it as correct as we can.
"I've never smelled a Lock". Is the word "Smelled" a real word in this context? Some how I think not. By the way: it's Bow... More, not Baw... More. I should know, I've drank multiple bottle of Bowmore over the years, also I live just doon the road from where this is bottled Edinburgh Scotland.
would love to have this at 46 abv . non chill ,and no coloring.like the independant bottlings.Daniel how about a episode about chill filtering and caramel coloring..thanks,cheers.
Like being slapped across the face with new leather. Like luxury car leather. Right off the bat. I really disliked it at first, but by mid bottle I grew to like it. Pertly getting used to it, partly because it tames itself as it opens up..
As someone else stated, the easiest way to teach someone to pronounce it correctly, is to spell out the word BOWTIE and have them read it, then they won't get so hung up on the "w". You don't say "BoW tie" you say "Bo-Tie" lol
One of my favorite whiskies. I always have a Bowmore 12 on hand. You know, for emergencies. Or Tuesdays.
Mmmmm.. Tuesday's......
try 18y old Bowmore
I've tried a bunch of different Bowmores, and the Bowmore 12 is the one I try to keep around. That's not to say I disliked any of the others I've tried, in fact I've liked them all! But Bowmore 12 fits so nicely into my collection, in its own niche. It's inexpensive, and it really is a nice Scotch to drink on Tuesdays, or any days. Lately it's sort of become my default, for those times I want an easy Scotch (relatively speaking, it's still from Islay after all) to relax with at the end of a day, when there's no special occasion or desire to go higher end or more complex. If I indulge a little bit more than I normally would, I don't feel like I'm "wasting" the "good stuff" drinking it too fast or too much of it in a sitting. It's still good stuff, though. I wouldn't drink it if I didn't love it. I just feel it's more relaxed, while still maintaining all those wonderful Islay qualities. There's probably a lot of people who'd find Bowmore 12 to be way too intense, and could not conceive of anyone calling this Scotch "relaxed", but for a hardcore Islay fanatic like myself it's very gentle. I think any Islay lover should have this around, if only for a change of pace, and it may very well be the perfect introduction to Islay for the timid newbie.
Me drinking the Bowmore 12 on a Tuesday while reading this
new slogan for Bowmore "Can we just, like, sit the fuck down and enjoy this?" Lovely ending.
We need to send it to them and copyright it.
Wow, one that you actually enjoy so much you don't really compare it or say too much about it, all you want to do is drink it. That is quite the recommendation.
The Bowmore distillery is Thee Oldest Single Malt Scotch Distillery in Scotland. Established in 1779 . 3 years after the signing of The Declaration of Independence , thus the founding of The United States for America .
I've never had Bowmore, but just found it at my local Costco for only $29! So worth the price of admission! Thx gents!
that is a steal bro
That's about the retail here in Japan, but only when on promotion. So I usually get three bottles to keep me going.
Is 12 year old?
At that price, I think not.
Is this price including taxes?
Costs $70 now, scotch is so insane now 😩
I tried this at my favourite pub tonight, live jazz sax in the background. It was the first peated scotch I’ve tried. It was so good. The smoke really stuck around, even a few hours later I can still taste and smell it.
I just found this at my local discout super market when I was getting some snacks for the evening....had to grab it just because, now I'm happy I did.
I had my first Islay whisky and Bowmore 12 for the first time several weeks ago and had two glasses at a bar, introduced by a friend. Now I can't stop thinking about it.
I had previously tried smoky/peaty beer which I really didn't like. I also tried a very cheap (speyside and highland) blended mildly smoky scotch, given by a friend as a gift, which was tolerable and good as a mixer; but the Bowmore 12 blew me away.
I previously had other scotches I really liked (and was the best whisk[e]y I ever drank), but they were an unpeated Speyside (Aberlour 12 double cask) and an unpeated Highland (Dalmore 12)--more fruity and light. I thought this was basically all that scotch was. I had no idea the wide variety of flavours, or of Islays.
I'm now so interested to get into Islays to see what they have to offer!
Too bad they are so overpriced in Quebec, Canada. The cheapest Islays are between 60-100$ CAD. Some are 100-300$.
It's the same in Australia, cost wise, but they are worth it!
It's like watching an old episode of Friends - they're so young and cute!
This has to be one of my favorite reviews! I'm looking forward to opening my Bowmore 12 too see what I think!
This was an excellent review, and you do so many, of Bowmore Scotch. I think it is an wonderful expression of scotch. Many try to compare it to various other scotches, Laphroaig especially, that it looses it's place in the wonderful versions of scotch whisky. My uncle loved all types of scotch and often got various ones including 28 year old, 17 year, etc. He taught me to appreciate the various flavors and types of scotch including blended. He said, it was rare for him to meet a scotch he didn't like (ok there where a few).
Yeah this was my first smokey whisky 1y ago. Since then I had Lagavulin 16 and the got edition, caol ila 12, caol ila 18,conemara, taliksrer, Talisker dark storm. Bowmore is still my favourite
Dammit! That's what I say, too. I had them all, I listened to the experts (Ralfy et. al.) - but I'm not ashamed to rate a relatively cheap, colored and chill filtered Bowmore 12 higher than a praised Lagavulin. The "Bowmore-Smoke" is of another kind, not only gentler.
Sitting the fuck down and enjoying my Bowmore 12, I truly approve of the end to the video. What a great scotch!
I have just tried the McLellands back just a few weeks ago and had really enjoyed it. An especially nice Islay for it's low price point. Since then, I've picked up a few bottles of Bowmore 12's at out local liquor and have been really, really enjoying them, for all the same reasons you guys have described here. Now that you mention the McLellands Islay being a 3yr old Bowmore, I can clearly see that. It's very interesting comparing the two together now. Amazing the subtleties and smoothness that the extra 9 years of aging add's to this scotch, especially in terms of the sherry and oak notes that become more clearly pronounced. But that said, it's also quite amazing how nice the McLellands (aka young Bowmore) is even at only 3 or so years young! McLellands IS a really nice alternative to enjoying this friendly peated dram on a budget. Though a good 12 year old Bowmore is well WELL worth the extra money. Fun review and appreciate the good info. Bless up
I finally sat down and had the same wonderful splash of deliciousness as you guys. drinking along listening to the notes really helped me pick some things out. Take care fellas and me we drink again.
yes! Thanks for watching!
Just picked up my first bottle of Bowmore for $32!! Started watching this video, and can't wait to crack it open when I get home 😁
Just tried this one for the first time. I’m impressed. It has everything I love about Islay whiskey but also very light and smooth. I can see myself enjoying this with a big steak dinner. I like the price point too. Easily a top favorite for me.
Love the 12. I bought the 15 and 18 as well and although they might be slightly better, you can't beat the 12 for the price. It's my go to whiskey
I found a bottle of this wonderful Scotch for $38 here in Florida. I'm so happy.
I just found a bottle of this. I think they may have upped the smoke. I just finished an Ardbeg 10, and this stuff is right up there.
Is it medicinal like the laphroaig? I only had one peated and was laphroaig ten I like the smoke but not the earthy moss/antiseptic cream
@@Flexhunter308 Any peated whisky is going to be a little medicinal. The stuff in the smoke - the phenols - are also responsible for the band-aid smell.
One of my favorite local restaurants has Bowmore 12 on their whisky list and I always order it as it is the only spot around that has it. I like it. Ralfy only gives an 80!
Ralfy is wrong on this one
Truly and really a good whisky, will keep coming back for this one be sure about it
bō-more. like "bow and arrow" & "bow-tie" Great whisky and great review guys thx!
It’s pronounced B’moore like they’re saying. At least that’s how they pronounce it at the actual distillery…
After years of bouncing back and forth between scotches, I found Bowmore. It is the best balanced scotch by far . . . And affordable.
Mcleland Islay is the only Islay I’ve had and I loved it. Good to know it’s wasn’t terrible in comparison
One of my first owned bottles and still one of my favorites!
This whiskey is so damn good. I find it comforting
Grabbed a bottle of this today, and its a good one. I'm new to the world of peat and decided to start here after pretty extensive research (including this video, of course). It's 60 bucks where I'm from (MT) but so is Glenlivet, so the complexity and drinkability seems well worth the price tag.
I was actually drinking the McClelland islay while watching this is find it a really nice cheaper scotch. Thanks for all the videos
Yes! Love it.
Matt Mitchell If I remember correctly McClelland scotches are produced by Morrison Bowmore Distillery. They own the Bowmore distillery and other distilleries throughout Scotland so you are getting exceptional tasting scotch at an affordable price. Never a bad thing.
I've only been drinking whiskey for about a year. I started with the typical Bourbon, and I've come to really enjoy it... I've also only seen a few of your episodes, but given the fact that both you guys opted to just sit down and enjoy the Bowmore said a lot to me. So, I might just have to go my local liquor store and buy it... Thanks for the great review!!
I have had this one couple years I just opened it yesterday. Smoke is deff light which I like
As a guy that started on Speysides and tried, but was not ready for Laphroiag, I'd say it is a good gateway, sort of. It is a slightly advanced gateway. I did not find it a "sweet and friendly hug" more like a gentle shove as opposed to Laphroaig's punch in the face. The smoke is not too aggressive, but it is very apparent (for my novice pallet). That said, I do like it and am looking forward to other Isla's (Coal ila, Highland park 12 etc.) before I really get back to that Laphroaig.
As an Islay fanatic, I absolutely would describe Bowmore 12 as a sweet and friendly hug. I'm definitely calibrated for much more smoke, and I love it. If Islay's not for you, then Islay's not for you, and there's no shame in that. I do see value in exploring new things and developing one's palate, but there's no need to punish oneself with flavors one doesn't enjoy. My first experience with Islay Scotch was Ardbeg 10, which many consider to be more intense than any of Laphroaig's offerings, but I loved it from the first sip. There's also a range to Islay beyond how smoky the Scotch can be. If you enjoy Bowmore 12, maybe your goal should be something like Bowmore 18, Laphroaig 15, Ardbeg Corryvrekan, or Lagavulin 16, rather than Caol Ila 12, Laphroaig Quarter Cask, Laphroaig 10, or Ardbeg 10.
Also a small nitpick, Highland Park isn't on Islay, although it is on an island. You might be interested in Talisker, as another non-Islay but peaty island Scotch. Highland Park 12 might be considered a small step down on smokiness, and Talisker 10 might be considered a small step up on smokiness.
Thx! I've had Talisker, early on and it was a bit much but not unenjoyable. I am wanting to try Lag 16, that's my next big (ish) purchase. I actually found Ardbeg 10 more friendly than Laphroaig 10, mostly due to less antiseptic flavor. I also bought Bowmore 15 darkest but have not opened it yet. I do like Highland park 12, which I have bought since the last post. I hated it for the first minute, it had some really off smell and flavor when I first cracked the bottle but it was never there again. I notice that with many new bottles, they taste awful, just that first few minutes after being cracked. I like to challenge my tastes and expand my pallate with food, wine, beer and spirits. I find the journey worth it in the end when I can enjoy things like Sushi or oysters, Cabernet Sauvignion or Malbec, Hoppy beer or dark stouts, or high proof or peat, or smoke or woody spirits. If you have the time and enough money to try multiple things inside and out of your comfort zone I think you always are better for it. Again, THX for the input!
They do stuff?? They turn the wet barley every four hours for six to seven days! from the Bowmore website: First, the raw barley is steeped for 27 hours in fresh water sourced from the nearby River Laggan. Then the soaked grains are spread out across the stone floors of the Malt Barn.
After 24 hours the barley is ready for turning, a vital step that keeps the grains aerated and cool, and the rate of germination slow and consistent. For the next six to seven days, our Maltmen will turn the damp barley every four hours, day and night, using large wooden shovels. Once it’s ready, the barley - now called “green malt” on account of the tiny shoots beginning to show - is taken to the kiln for drying.
Lovely stuff. Peaty, beehivey, and citrusy nectar
The distillery is by a sea loch, not a lake or freshwater loch. A sea loch is like an inlet, so it is by the sea. I get the briney notes as well.just saying guys
I just ordered Bowmore 12 because of this video (£30). Let’s see if big difference to Bowmore no.1 (£23).
Great Vids guys :)
Never liked peated whiskey before tasting bowmore. The smoke is so warm and friendly.
Definitely this or Caol Ila are a friendly introduction to smokey whisky. I liked Daniel’s comparison with black tea! There’s something to that, but there’s also some lovely tropical fruit notes. It’s a beautifully balanced whisky, pity it isn’t a few percent stronger, or released cask strength, cos a little extra kick and body would make it better for sure. A good session whisky for people who like smoke.
Very happy for this to be my first single malt Scotch whisky! Very tasty, and the smell is just awesome!
I dont get, why there is so much hate against this whisky. So many snobs shit on this whisky like it were the bacardi of the whisky world.
I like it.
Guys, I love the channel, and having had the Bowmore 12 for the first time last night, I decided to watch your video. Lots of good info, but the Bowmore distillery is right on the ocean (bay), directly across from Bruichladdich. Just look at Google Maps. I can't even find the loch that Daniel mentions.
Edit- On further research, apparently they call that bay Loch Indaal, which Bruichladdich also faces. Not sure why they call it a loch. It's not land"loch"ed. Keep up the good work
Actually the first bottle of whisky I ever bought, didn't (don't) know shit about whisky.Enjoying a glass right now, butterscotch and honey come to mind.
Excellent smoky whiskey
I don't know if I should post my tastings here, but here it goes. Beginner
One of the first bottle I bought, and without a proper glass,
I got the light peat and most the sweet notes mentioned here except the lemon zest.
Continue down the bottle and almost at the last I finally got a proper glass.
Now instead, I got very strong mineral notes. Chalk and aluminium like.
With the sweet note hidden much further behind.
Anyone got the same?
i discovered this whisky true a tasting kit i got for christmas. i just bought a botle of it for tomorrow. its gonna be special
I usually play down the Texans thing but I take pride that yall are located in Texas.
My favourite Whisky, by far!
Good review and great Elbow reference!
Bowmore's 12yo is an easy drink.
After watching this review and having my first dram, this has become my absolute favorite drink. Peat, earth/clay, and butterscotch! I love how you guys finish the review early so you can steal away and enjoy it. I completely understand.
Watching this video has "forced" me to buying a bottle of this and Highland Park 12 as both sounded like a great introduction towards/into Islay whisky. After doing a side by side of the two. I think I have a better idea of the mossy, sea water and peat smoke flavours which I enjoy as it reminds me hiking in forests and campfires from fishing retreats.
However, I'm left scratching my head searching for the relative sweet notes such as butterscotch and honey which lead me to a thought "Does it take longer for a non-smoker to catch these flavours?"
I understand sweet in Islay whisky is relative and no where near friendly Highland or Japanese blended whisky (Which are the only kinds I have drank to date), but I wonder if it is easier for someone to taste these notes for someone who is commonly exposed to the dominant smoke flavour. Hope to unlock the complexity of these whiskys in the next 2,3 or 10 drams as I would eventually like to work my way towards Lagavulin and Laphroig.
Bowmore 12 cost me 80 Bucks here in Washington, in a small shop in Centralia, very good! wish I could find it for less.
To me, it's a decent Islay that improves as the bottle goes down. The aeration softens the edges and opens the citrus notes behind the salt. Not my favorite Islay, but one I can enjoy from time to time, when I don't want to get hit by bricks of peat.
Probably my favourite Islay malt after Laga 16. Not a full on Peat head so this is the one to try for anyone who is the same.
My 1st Islay whisky. A very nice whisky and for a decent price in Ontario Canada. 58 bucks on sale. Two questions. What would you guys recommend for a whiskey thats has a bit more Smokeyness. The other is what would you guys recommend for a highland scotch for beginner's that is a decent price
Barry Dunham yeah it’s like 60 bucks here in Newfoundland. Delicious. Haven’t been able to bring myself to drop 115 for Lagavulin, but this is a good option.
Watching this video cause I was thinking of buying this as my first Islay whisky in Ontario lmao
Lagavulin tastes like burning hospitals and flaming tires at first then 10 seconds later it tastes good.
I got mine here in Alberta for sub $40.
Sweden - 40 bucks for a bowmore 12. 50 for a bowmore 15! Sucks to be american ;)
Little late on the draw with this comment but just picked up a bottle of this getting off work tonight. Being a broke student i usually make my relatively more expensive alchohol last but I'm currently going on my third glass of this tonight. Good for me, bad for my bank account.
I'm both sorry and not sorry
Whiskey Vault I'm now both drunk and broke. Funny how they seem to cancel out. Or that's what i tell myself.
This is ny father’s favourite. Mine would be grandpa’s (on my mother’s side) homemade whisky. Any suggestions on what he might enjoy that fits this flavor profile?
Can you review /compare this to smokey Joe. Reviews suggest that bowmore juice is in smokey joe?
I’m finishing the bottle of Bowmore Legend, and i’m really enjoying the sweet aftertaste and the nice and smooth smoke that it has.
What would you recommend as a similar islay whisky that i should buy next? Should i try some of the other Bowmore versions or there is a more interesting option?
So far i tried Caol Ila, Ardberg 10 and Lagavulin distillers edition, and i think they were a bit to strong for my taste
Me too. I followed Ralfy's advice - but it's not for me. I still think Bowmore wears the crown.
When I saw this my brain first said, "BOH-more", ratherthan "BAU-more". Turns out it's "b'MORE".
You were right, Daniel is wrong.
This has become my nightly sipper. Now i certainly don't have a full room of whiskey but as a non professional collector i have still managed to gather a bars worth of whiskey. (Whisky) (dont let anyone tell you scotch is for older men either i myself and 23 and my fiance who is a big lover of aged scotch is just 21)
I have said that this is the perfect single malt to introduce a whiskey drinker to islay
I find the taste a little bland (or crisp depending on how you look at it), but it has a wonderful aroma that makes it well worth the price tag. A subtle drink for a relaxed evening.
so you would recommend this whisky to someone wanting to dip they're toes in Islay whisky?
Maybe if you started with the Small Batch. It's more mellow
The Ardmore is also a good start, Bowmore small batch is an acquired taste (and I love Islay over any other region for Scotch)
Other options: Highland Park, newer Talisker 10 or even Connemara Irish peated Whiskey might be an idea.
I found it to be pretty easy drinking. Just finished my bottle and wondering what I should try next.
Islay, you mean the land of love
Outstanding dram! Everything I want is on Islay, no need to go elsewhere except for Skye (Talisker). I find WantMore 12-yr to be a more complex and complete version of Glendorach 12. I find most Highland and Speyside's to be one dimensional. When you add smoke and earthy peat you now have a complete dram. Well done WantMore!
Picked up a bottle of this before my last poker night with the guys based on this review. That bottle was emptied quickly.
Bow as in Bow & Arrow, not bow as in take a bow - Martin (fae Scotland and only a wee boat away from Islay). Hope this helps ;)
Yes! Thank you for backing me on this one ;-) Now I can rub it in Rex's face like usual.
But you say it like it's 2 words, not one. Bow more not bomore.
Martin ThisisWar that's my Texas accent taking over
If you were to say bonjour in French do you use your own accent or put on a French accent? Most folks will make it sound French so that it sounds right- same deal with whisky. It's also fun trying to get non-Scots to pronounce the ch in words like loch and Genfiddich correctly.
Here's something you will know better than me - do whisky (Scotch whisky I'm talking about) books produced for the international market have pronunciation guides for the names? Does respect for the craftmanship/brewmanship carry over to the name and saying it properly? I guess it must do as we often see, myself included, pronounce it in a few different ways in an attempt to get it as correct as we can.
"I've never smelled a Lock". Is the word "Smelled" a real word in this context? Some how I think not.
By the way: it's Bow... More, not Baw... More. I should know, I've drank multiple bottle of Bowmore over the years, also I live just doon the road from where this is bottled Edinburgh Scotland.
thats my favorite! affordable and tastes great!
Tesco in the UK are selling this reduced to £26 from £40. i'm already in the car
Same deal now on at Morrisons pal
The 18yo is even better boys!
I got wasted drinking this
would love to have this at 46 abv . non chill ,and no coloring.like the independant bottlings.Daniel how about a episode about chill filtering and caramel coloring..thanks,cheers.
I like that idea! We'll talk about it soon.
"Bo-more", like "Bowtie"
Hummm, black tea with some smoke. It sounds like the best tea to compare it to would be a Lapsang Souchong.
It’s actually bow as in arrow
Just Kung fu’ed a bottle. Nice. Like Highland Park 12 but smokier. Also I think McClelland’s islay is a young Bowmore.
have they done bowmore 15? drinking it now, couldnt find a vid on it
Why is it that when i drink this frome a wisky glass i hate it, but when i drink it frome the bottle i like it ?
bo-more!
Islay and I'm glad to know that info
It's funny to watch two people argue when they're both wrong.
"I'm doing very manual things with implements"
Grunt!
Did you review Darkest? If so where? :)
Q: Why did the cookie cry? A: Because his father was a wafer so long!
One of the oldest distillery’s in Scotland
How does it compare to bowmore no. 1?
The Bowmore distillery is on the ocean not a lake.
Bowmore 12 and Connemara Single malt both taste the same.
Prove me wrong.
How do Bowmore 12 and Caol ila 12 like compare flavor wise? Like which one do y’all like better?
Very different, but similar category. Caol Ila is a bit more light and sparkly. Bowmore more sharp on the smoke and darker.
I always get blackcurrant when I drink the 12 nice whisky
Bow and Arrow?
Like being slapped across the face with new leather. Like luxury car leather. Right off the bat. I really disliked it at first, but by mid bottle I grew to like it. Pertly getting used to it, partly because it tames itself as it opens up..
That one is just so guzzly
My father's favourite drinking scotch, and is quickly becoming mine. Can't fault it for the price. 20 euros where I live, perfect.
Actually drinking some while watching this ahah
Not less known, probarbly most known…
As someone else stated, the easiest way to teach someone to pronounce it correctly, is to spell out the word BOWTIE and have them read it, then they won't get so hung up on the "w". You don't say "BoW tie" you say "Bo-Tie" lol
Bowmore, ‘lesser known’?
It's 40% though